Second-quarter like-for-like sales for core brands rose about 4.2%, supporting the 4–5% full-year revenue growth forecast and lifting investor sentiment.

Reckitt Benckiser plans selective price increases across multiple markets, including the UK, to offset higher costs driven by the Iran-related Middle East conflict and volatile oil prices.

Management now expects oil‑price volatility to have a smaller hit in 2026 after earlier warnings that prices around $110 per barrel could shave up to £150 million from earnings.

Oil prices have moderated from earlier peaks, leading Reckitt to anticipate a reduced input-cost impact in 2026, though some volatility remains.

Excluding the impact of the stake sale, first-half earnings were broadly flat and better than expected.

Executives said that, apart from the divestment, first-half earnings were broadly flat and exceeded expectations.

Licht noted that first-half earnings were broadly flat and better than expected when the sale’s effect is excluded.

Reckitt maintained guidance for 4% to 5% annual revenue growth, underpinned by innovation in power brands like Dettol driving demand in China and boosting second-quarter like-for-like sales.

Dettol and related power-brand innovations contributed to stronger-than-expected second-quarter growth.

Industry context suggests consumer prices may continue to affect households globally, with implications for inflation and purchasing power.

Reckitt’s pricing actions reflect a broader trend among consumer goods firms facing inflation and geopolitical tensions.

Management ties higher prices to ongoing war-related economic strain that spans multiple markets and product lines.